English language
Rapolla is situated in the territory surrounding Mount Vulture. It was built around a Basilian monastery founded in the 10th century. In 1042, this village was conquered by the Normans who built their stronghold here. Pillaged by Lothair III's troops, RAPOLLA was destroyed by the inhabitants of Melfi in 1187 and was rebuilt shortly after by Guglielmo il Buono. The village was ruled by Galvano Lancia, Giovanni Galard, Herveo de Chevreuse and Anselmo de Toncy. It was later governed by the Caracciolo family from Torella until the 19th century. Noteworthy is the Cathedral built in the 12th century with a Romanesque - style portal and a belfry dating from 1209. Its interior has one nave and two aisles adorned with arches and capitals, it houses a crucifix dating from the 16th century and is decorated by bas - reliefs depicting the Original Sin and the Annunciation, by Sarolo from Muro Lucano. Of great artistic interest are di ""Ciesa di San Biagio" (Church of St.Blaise) housing a wooden statue dating from the 13th century, the Baroque - style "Chiesa dell'Annunziata" (Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation) and the "Chiesa di Santa Lucia (Church of St.Lucy) built by the Normans in the 11th century and housing fresoes depicting several episodes of St. Lucy's life. An interesting Roman sarcophagus at present housed in the "Museo Nazionale di Melfi" (National Museum of Melfi) was found within is territory in an area called Albero in Piano.RAPOLLA is famous for its spring waters spouting from the foot of Mount Vulture and particularly suggested for the treatement of rheumatic and bronchial diseases. It is surrounded by olive groves yielding high - quality oil and by hills where cereal growing is widespread.
Ultimo aggiornamento Sabato 25 Giugno 2011 14:14

























